2015 Geneva Motor Show: Magna announces plug-in hybrid sports car

By
Josée Paquet ,
2015-02-27

Canadian-based Magna International Inc., a leading global supplier for the auto industry, is set to debut the MILA Plus plug-in hybrid sports car at 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week. The concept vehicle offers an all-electric range of 75 km and achieves reduced CO2 emissions of 32g/km.

Weighing 1,520 kg, the MILA Plus is based on an extruded aluminum space frame which has a number of advantages over a steel structure including a lower weight and modular structural flexibility. Other weight-saving measures include a high-voltage battery built into the space frame, lightweight plastic body panels, and a combination of sophisticated manufacturing methods.

Magna's plug-in hybrid sports car concept also benefits from several advanced technologies. For instance, two cameras replacing the exterior mirrors not only improve the car's aerodynamics but also provide wide-angle, high-resolution live images shown on two display screens inside the car.

The performance of the 3-cylinder gasoline engine is enhanced by two electric motors -- one between the internal combustion engine and transmission to drive the rear axle, and one on the electric front axle. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 4.9 seconds.